Choose the best material for your driveway

Striking the right balance between functional and aesthetic appeal for your driveway can be a challenge. Here are your options.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a material for your driveway, including longevity, durability, maintenance  and cost.

One of the latest trends in driveway finishing is granite. Although they can be expensive, they’re built to last a long time and they’re worthy of design magazine centrefolds. If you’re on a budget, you can get a beautiful driveway for a reasonable cost and it will last you just as long. More affordable driveway solutions include asphalt, concrete and brick. Most contractors offer sealers and coatings that make your new driveways last even longer. Here are some of your options in more detail.

The black asphalt driveway is common because it looks great and costs very little and is quite low maintenance. If you want to get your driveway done quickly on a tight budget, asphalt is your best bet. Keep in mind that asphalt driveways are prone to cracking and may need to be repaired from time to time. Also on a warm summer day, asphalt driveways can get very hot, which can be uncomfortable if you're going barefoot.

Brick driveways are more expensive than most, but they also have stunning curb appeal. They require more time and labour than other solutions, but with brick, you can create unique patterns that look great and set your home apart from others in your neighbourhood. Brick is also a low maintenance driveway solution that shouldn’t cause you much trouble other than the need to replace a brick here and there over the years.

Concrete is hands down the best option for those who want to express themselves and create a unique and on-trend look for their home. Concrete can also be understated, making it a versatile option for any home. There are many colours and design options for concrete driveways, and it’s important to plan it out and choose the right contractor for the job. A good contractor will help you find a style that suits your home on a reasonable budget. Concrete driveways are affordable, but they also require a little more maintenance than others in colder climates because they are vulnerable to cracking. Although, quality sealers and coatings can extend the life of your concrete driveway.